How often do you change your car?

Do you like to get the most usage out of your car? Or do you prefer to update your car each year? Motorists buy cars for many reasons. Whether they are purchasing their first car or are changing it for another model, there are a variety of triggers which influence these decisions. The reasons behind the purchases can also determine how often someone changes their car.

FREE instant online car valuation

Enter your number plate

What triggers you to buy a car?

Adjustments to a person’s life – whether it’s a lifestyle choice or a change in circumstance – and either planned or unplanned, can lead someone to buy their next car. A survey conducted by Transport for London has taken a look at what usually triggers someone to purchase a car. For example, passing the DVLA driving test, getting a new job or accommodating a growing family. Their statistics show that many respondents had “significant lifestyle changes, many of which had led them to re-evaluate their travel options.

Here are some of the main reasons why someone could choose to buy or change a car.

Planned changes

Passed their driving test

As soon as a driving licence has been obtained, the next step is often to purchase a car. The newfound freedom with owning a car can quickly change a person’s lifestyle, increasing their independence.

Better finances

Whether this is from a new job, inheritance or any other means to increase finances, having more disposable income can trigger the desire to upgrade a car.

Change in circumstance

A shift in current needs and priorities, for example, a growing family or a relocation, is a big prompter when it comes to car choice. For example, a sporty model may not be the most practical when starting a family. Alternatively, a large SUV may be unnecessary for someone moving to a city.

Change in costs

An increase in the cost of public transport may make the purchase of a car a more economically friendly option. Alternatively, an increase in petrol, road tax or any other motoring costs can persuade people to downsize and opt for a cheaper and more economical car.

Driver’s age

Age is another factor that has been discovered to influence how often someone changes their car. A recent study found that those over 45 are more likely to have more disposable income than those aged 18-24, and therefore, are more likely to change their car based on emotion rather than circumstance; they simply wanted a new car.

Unplanned changes

Car written off

Being involved in a collision is never planned, especially if it causes severe damage to the point that the car is written off. However, if this is the case, then buying another car is often inevitable for those who cannot manage their commitments without one.

Inspired by a great deal

Some car buyers may not have been planning to buy their next car in the near future, but were persuaded by a good deal that was too hard to say no to.

Should I buy a car?

Whatever your circumstance, whether it has recently changed or not, many people wonder whether it is the right time to sell their car and buy their next one.

It is important to consider that cars become less reliable as they age, as well as becoming less valuable and often costing more in maintenance expenses. This is why many car owners sell their vehicle before it becomes too old and end up costing more money than it is worth. As well as the car’s condition, the market value could also be an influential factor. New cars are being released all the time, decreasing the demand and value of older cars.

If you’re ready to choose your next car and want to sell your old one, then why not start by getting your free and instant car valuation with webuyanycar.com. Enter your number plate now and receive your car’s value in less than 60 seconds!